Grade/subject/school: First grade at Central Elementary in Plainfield.

Number of years teaching: 36.

Work email: smathis@plainfield.k12.in.us.

Background/schooling: I attended elementary school in Thorntown until; third grade, when we moved to Indianapolis. I graduated from Northwest High School. I have a bachelor’s degree from Indiana State University and a master’s degree from Indiana University.

Why did you become a teacher: I wanted to become a teacher after starting kindergarten! When I was a senior in high school, I was a cadet teacher for Mrs. Eleanor Jones at (IPS) School 96. It was then that I fell in love with young children forever!

What goals do you have for your students: I want my students to leave first grade with a love for reading and learning. I also hope that they leave with some warm and happy memories of first grade.

What do you encourage parents to do at home to help their children strengthen particular skills: Read, read, read! I sometimes read a book called “Read To Your Bunny” to my parents at Parent Orientation. The more you read to and with your child, they better reader they will become. Don’t stop reading aloud to your children until they will not listen anymore!

Name your favorite movie. I love the old movies channels!

Name your favorite musician or band. No contest: The Beach Boys.

What’s something your students might not know about you: I taught kindergarten for 12 years before moving to first grade. I love to go to the beach anywhere!